Costa Rica Youth Adventure

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Costa Rica. Upon arriving in San Jose, we’ll greet you at the airport and transfer to our accommodation in the trendy suburb of Escazu. With its vibrant atmosphere and sweeping views of the Central Valley, Escazu is the ideal starting point for our adventure. This evening, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, allowing you to savour traditional Costa Rican dishes like gallo pinto and patacones as you get to know your fellow travellers.

Please note: This tour stays in a mixture of hotels and hostels and is designed for younger travellers looking for a backpacker-style experience and to meet like-minded people. The average age on this tour is around 21 - 35, and we are unfortunately unable to take any travellers over the age of 45. We have lots of group tours across our destinations that are suitable for travellers of all ages, browse our website or get in touch to find the perfect trip!

San Jose - Sarapiqui. Today, we leave San Jose behind and journey to the remarkable Poas Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most active. We’ll hike to the crater rim, where, with some luck, we’ll spot gas rising from its centre. For those eager to explore further, an additional trail leads to the lagoon rim, where vibrant blue waters contrast beautifully with the rugged surroundings. On the way back, we’ll pass the La Paz Waterfalls, catching a glimpse of the stunning 4th and 5th cascades.

Later, we’ll check in to a sustainable tropical rainforest lodge. In the evening, enjoy a hands-on cooking class at a family farm, learning traditional Costa Rican recipes with warm local hosts. If you’re feeling adventurous, join us after dark to search for the iconic red-eyed tree frogs.

Sarapiqui - La Fortuna. After breakfast, we will head out to visit the Proyecto Asis Wildlife Rescue Centre, dedicated to wildlife protection and conservation. Here, we’ll meet Costa Rica’s most laid-back residents - the sloths - and learn about their fascinating behaviour while observing them in their natural habitat.

Next, we’ll head to a small family-run coffee and cacao plantation to meet the owners and hear their inspiring story. After a late lunch in the charming town of La Fortuna, the afternoon is yours to enjoy. Choose from ziplining through the forest canopy, visiting the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall, swimming at El Salto with its rope swing, or unwinding in the natural hot springs surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

The morning is yours to explore as you wish! Hike through nearby national parks, where you can spot wildlife like toucans, coatis, and sloths, or trek across lava fields with stunning views of lakes and volcanoes. For adventure seekers, zipline through the forest canopy or cool off under a waterfall. We offer a drop-off service to help you reach your chosen activity.In the afternoon, we’ll visit a local beauty spot to relax in natural thermal springs, soaking in the rugged surroundings and recharging for tomorrow’s adventures.

La Fortuna - Monteverde. Today, we embark on an exciting journey by road and boat into the mystical Monteverde Cloud Forest. The adventure begins before we even arrive. Once there, we’ll check in to a rainforest conservation lodge - the only one within the national park - offering a truly immersive experience.

As night falls, join a ranger for a guided walk through the enchanted forest, discovering its nocturnal wonders. Keep an eye out for tarantulas, snakes, sloths, birds, toucanets, and more. We’ll round off the evening with a comforting cup of local hot chocolate.

This morning, we’ll roll up our sleeves and assist rangers with trail maintenance in the lush Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Along the way, we’ll learn about sustainability efforts through engaging ecology talks, making our volunteering both rewarding and educational.

In the afternoon, choose to spot wildlife such as elusive quetzals and playful monkeys or relax at the charming Hummingbird Café, just a short walk from the lodge. For thrill-seekers, Monteverde offers plenty of adrenaline-fueled activities, including hanging bridge walks, ziplines, rope swings, and even bungee jumps.

Monteverde - Paquera - Santa Teresa. We’ll descend the winding mountain roads to the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, we’ll pause at the picturesque bay of Paquera for a guided ocean kayaking experience. While paddling through the serene waters, we’ll also contribute to ocean conservation by helping to clean up plastic- a rewarding way to make a positive impact.

Afterward, we’ll continue to the lively coastal town of Santa Teresa. Our accommodation, just a short walk from the beach, offers a pool to unwind by after a fulfilling day. Watch the sun set over the horizon and enjoy the tranquil evening.

Please note: Basic paddling skills are required for the kayaking activity. Alternative options may be available for those who prefer not to kayak.

With most of the day free, it’s time to embrace full beach mode. Take a surf lesson to ride the legendary waves or simply relax on the sand and soak up the sun. For a serene end to the day, join an optional sunset yoga session near the beach.

In the evening, you can opt for an unforgettable bioluminescent night kayaking tour or a full moon experience, depending on the lunar calendar. While the excursion involves a 1.5-hour drive each way, it promises to be a truly magical adventure.

Santa Teresa - Manuel Antonio National Park. This morning, we’ll board a ferry crossing the Gulf to the iconic Manuel Antonio National Park. Keep an eye out for marine life along the way, as we make a few stops before reaching your eco-village accommodation.

While relaxing by the pool, you might spot monkeys in the trees. A local bus service right outside the hotel offers convenient transport to the beach, local eateries, or a perfect spot to watch the sunset. For those seeking adventure, small trails behind the hotel provide great opportunities to spot wildlife, including birds and frogs.

Spend another day immersed in the natural beauty of Manuel Antonio. As one of Costa Rica’s most renowned nature reserves, we’ll have access to Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can explore at your own pace. Swim in the jungle, wander through evergreen forests in search of sloths and playful monkeys, or relax on the beaches. The park’s trails offer great opportunities to spot exotic birds and more monkeys.

The afternoon is free to unwind or continue exploring, with convenient bus access to bring you back to your jungle hotel whenever you’re ready.

Manuel Antonio National Park - San Jose. Wake up in the lush paradise of Manuel Antonio. With a free morning ahead, choose your own adventure - explore rainforest trails, glide through peaceful mangrove waterways, relax on pristine beaches, or join an optional yoga session.

In the afternoon, we’ll journey back through scenic mountain roads to vibrant Escazu. To end your Costa Rican tour, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner, raising a glass to new friendships and unforgettable memories.

Our tour comes to an end after breakfast and hotel check out. Wishing you a safe onward journey.